ONE LAST SHOT
Cowboys coach offers recalled Bowen a lifeline
RETURNING North Queensland centre Javid Bowen appreciates this could be his final chance to make a name for himself in the NRL.
However rather than shy from the challenge, he is relishing the prospect of proving to coach Todd Payten the faith he put in him was valid. The 28-year-old has endured a tough road back to the elite level, having overcome shoulder surgery before forcing his way back into the team.
With veteran Justin O’Neill sidelined for two to four weeks due to bone bruising in his knee, Bowen has a window to impress and make a statement.
Rejuvenated, energetic and fuelled by the knowledge he may only get one final roll of the dice to cement himself, he said this was an opportunity he was not taking for granted.
And his developing partnership with halfback Jake Clifford could be his ticket to securing his long-term future.
“He went back (to the Northern Pride) and I played alongside him the last couple of games,” Bowen (pictured) said.
“We talk a lot during the game, we’ve played next to each other for a fair few games so there’s a bit of a connection there.
“I’m 28 now so getting to the pointy end, I’m very grateful for the opportunity he’s given me and take it with two hands.
“Hopefully I keep the momentum going and do my job for the team – that’s all I can pretty much do, my role on the night.
“I worked pretty hard with my shoulder injury in the pre-season so I guess the hard work is definitely paying off.”
Clifford has been impressive in the Intrust Super Cup ever since he was axed from the Cowboys’ line-up.
However, Payten has spoken glowingly of the way he handled the setback, and the manner in which he refocused to prepare for his next chance.
“I watched the game live, the Pride v the Blackhawks, and he was really dominant with the way he talked, I thought he kicked well and he ran the ball off shape,” Payten said.
“That was a really good blueprint of what we would like him to do here with us. He knows that and has been really good at training from week to week and will slide in easily.”
Bowen and Clifford’s return coincides with the first Queensland derby clash against the Broncos of the year, and the build-up to it has Bowen champing at the bit.
That extra energy is set to be his fuel to reward Payten’s belief in him from the outset of his coaching tenure in North Queensland.